Engine/Transmission (1998.5 - 2002) When can I file a claim under the "Lemon Law" for defective trans.

[PSchmidt]

I have a stock 1998. 5 24V with about 108K and the third automatic trans is already showing signs of failure. The factory trans lasted a whopping 33K but the 2nd replacement lasted until 89K at which time Dodge pulled a brand new one off the assembly line and replaced it in June 2002. The fluid was changed in Dec 2002 and again in June 2003 at which time the dealer had to power flush it twice since the fluid was so contaminated. I have owned GMC diesels with automatics, Ford power-stroke with an automatic, and a 1996 Dodge Cummins with automatic (prior to that I had a 1991 Dodge Cummins with a standard) all worked flawlessly with no transmission failure. The only thing I tow is a 19ft runabout open bow boat (Approx 1 ton) about 10 times a year and I wish I could say this truck was beefed up, but it is stock as stock comes. (Can't afford to be my own warranty station!) I guess I have a spot of luck, the new trans Dodge put in at 89K has a 36,000, 3 year warranty so I guess the 4th transmission will be on them as well. But what am I doing wrong? What can I change to prevent the failures? I live in the Cincinnati area which is pretty flat and most of the driving is city. When I asked the dealer who has serviced the truck since it was new what I am doing wrong, I was told nothing! But they fell short to say the transmission is weak by design.



Does the "Lemon Law" in Ohio cover this type of thing? Do I just take it in the rump and get a good aftermarket transmission like most TDR members? (Which by the way, how do you rate which aftermarket transmission company sells the best durable product that is close to Cincinnati?) Do I just replace the automatic with a standard transmission?



Comments from the transmission GODs?

 

[LSMITH]

Black Mountain Diesel is only an hour or so south of you, and Tom can build a transmission that will last for you. He posts here under "Briar Hopper", shoot him a PM or an email to talk about it a little.

 

[E7mack96]

Hi, I am just right by you.



I live in Fairfield.



I'd talk to Enterprise Engine. They are near Columbus, Oh.

 

[parcher]

Lemon law generally covers a vehicle for the duration of the warranty period. If the vehicle has had 3 attempted repairs with no success or has been down for 30 continuous days. At 108k I think you're on your own.

 

[bmoeller]

What's your transmission temp? A set of gauges MAY help prevent future failure if it has been getting hot.



It can get pretty hot even doing something simple as backing up a trailer or sitting in traffic at a light long enough.



I've driven in soft ground before and had to go to low range so it didn't have to work so hard because of the temp was getting too high.

 

[bbsher]

I have same rig as yours with about same mileage. Changed to ATS t-converter with their valve body and commander. I'm very happy with it. Have all gages. Good luck.

 

[Pit Bull]

I'd say you are pretty lucky. Dodge is going to put in a new transmission and then you can take the new trans and have it modified to suit your driving. So for not a lot of money out of your pocket your good to go since your dealing with a new transmission.

 

[rrausch]

Good point Pit Bull!



Clint at ATS can arrange for any good shop near you to install their bulletproof Torque Converter and advanced Valve Body. All the difficult machine work has already been done, and any good local shop basically just has to slap it in.



I got the ATS complete rebuild about 26,000 miles ago, and it is the best thing I ever did to my truck. Good luck! Clint's number is 800-949-6002

 

[klaybus]

After-Market Upgrades!

If you get transmission #4 on DC, go to a DTT shop & have the upgrades done... . New TC, Upgraded VB, & Clutch packs, Etc. & it'll be like driving a new truck. Also, I agree with the previous poster... ..... Get a Trans TEMP GUAGE, it's CRITICAL!



Clay



Call Bill @ DTT 1-866-504-4002